Exploring the Golden Era of Science Fiction Radio with X Minus One

Discover the captivating world of science fiction radio with "X Minus One," a groundbreaking series that aired from April 24, 1955, to January 9, 1958, on NBC. Initially a revival of NBC's Dimension X, this half-hour program is celebrated as one of the finest science fiction dramas ever produced for radio.

The series, which began with adaptations of Dimension X episodes, evolved into a collection of thrilling adaptations and original scripts by NBC staff writers such as Ernest Kinoy and George Lefferts. Featuring works by renowned authors like Isaac Asimov, Ray Bradbury, Philip K. Dick, Robert A. Heinlein, Frederik Pohl, and Theodore Sturgeon, "X Minus One" brought new dimensions to time and space.

Notable episodes include adaptations of Robert Sheckley's "Skulking Permit," Bradbury's "Mars Is Heaven," Heinlein's "Universe" and "The Green Hills of Earth," Pohl's "The Tunnel under the World," and other classics by J. T. McIntosh, Fritz Leiber, and George Lefferts.

The series opened with the iconic countdown, setting the stage for tales from the far horizons of the unknown. While the original run concluded on January 9, 1958, the early 1970s witnessed a wave of nostalgia for old-time radio. A 1973 experimental episode, "The Iron Chancellor" by Robert Silverberg, attempted to revive the series but fell short. NBC also made efforts to broadcast old recordings, but irregular scheduling hindered consistent listener engagement.

Despite its cancellation, all episodes of "X Minus One" survive, allowing enthusiasts to revisit this golden era of science fiction radio.